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Pain is a common symptom experienced at the end of life. Cultural background can affect how a patient perceives, expresses and makes decisions about pain. Pain is subjective as it is perceived by the patient and can only be reported by the patient. Many cultures have distinct cultural beliefs regarding death as well as the meaning, origin, and role of pain. Communicating about pain and putting pain into words is influenced by this cultural background.
As palliative care is focused on relieving suffering and improving quality of life, it is beneficial for health professionals to have an awareness of patients’ cultural values. Givler and colleagues (2023) argue that understanding the beliefs, experiences, and values of patients at end of life and their families can aid in effectively managing pain and improving quality of care. To support health professionals in developing this cultural competence, Givler identifies some cultural pain perceptions, reviews cultural barriers to palliative care, describe cultural pain differences, and suggests how interprofessional teams in palliative settings can provide culturally appropriate pain relief.
Some considerations outlined in paper include:
- Being aware of cultural and religious customs and practices
- Awareness of alternative pain management techniques
- Involving patients and families in the decision-making process
- Addressing language barriers through the use of translators (i.e patients family, professional interpreter)
The authors also highlight that while understanding general cultural backgrounds is important, individual patients will have their own preferences and health professionals should ask about their patients’ personal preferences regarding pain management and end-of-life care.
Source: Givler A, Bhatt H, Maani-Fogelman PA. The Importance Of Cultural Competence in Pain and Palliative Care. 2023 Feb 19. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29630206.
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